What should I bring when my dog is boarding?

We provide beds, blankets, bowls, toys, treats, and everything else that your dog needs for a comfortable stay with us. We do not accept large padded beds and we ask that you limit the belongings to 1 special toy or blanket during your stay. Leashes and collars, along with any other unused belongings will be stored in your dog’s cubby and labeled with his/her name.

Are all of the dogs kept together?

Dogs are grouped into 2 or 3 yards according to size and/or activity level.  We have a group for small dogs, for highly active dogs, and for less active or more mature dogs. All dogs must be comfortable in the group they are in. If they seem to be uncomfortable or shy, we may move them to a more appropriate group.

What if my dog doesn't want to play in the group or is not suitable for the group?

We have a section of the pet resort where dogs stay in their own yard with a covered structure to keep them from the elements. They have plenty of fresh air, water, a cot for resting, and their own dog run (17ft x 5ft) with a view of the trees. All dogs are brought indoors at 6pm for the night.This is a good alternative to a kennel and your dog will have plenty of room to run.

Why do you require the Bordetella vaccination every 6 months?

It is important that we take precautions to keep our guests free from illness. Bordetella vaccine is used to prevent Tracheobronchitis (commonly known as Kennel Cough). It is an airborne disease that causes upper respiratory problems. Once Kennel Cough is discovered it is likely to spread quickly. Although it is rarely a serious illness, it requires a veterinary diagnosis and possible treatment. Bordetella vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from getting this illness.
*It is recommended that the vaccine is given 5 days prior to your stay.

Are you limited to dogs only?

Our facility is designed for dogs and our staff is trained in dog behavior, health, and temperament specific to them. We may consider adding a section specifically for cats. For now, we are limited to dogs.

Do I have to bring my own food?

We offer "house food” for boarding dogs. It is dry kibble that is easy to digest. If you would like to bring your own food, we ask that you please mark it appropriately with your dogs name and the serving size. We feed twice a day for boarding dogs and upon request for day care dogs.

If your pet’s food needs to be refrigerated or heated, we can do both. If your pet requires a special diet, we are careful to make sure that all your instructions are followed and documented.

Do you accept any breed of dog?

An evaluation is required, for all dogs that are going into group play, regardless of their breed. We will determine their play style and temperament and which yard is most appropriate for your dog. If a dog is aggressive towards people or other dogs they will not be accepted.
*We are unable to accept Pit Bulls in our group play yards but they are eligible to board at our facility.

What if my pet needs medication?

At no extra cost to you, we will be happy to administer medication for your pet. We ask that you bring the medication, clearly marked with your pet’s name, and the exact instructions on when and how much to give. If your pet is a diabetic and requires insulin, our staff is trained on administering as needed.

Where do the dogs sleep?

For our larger guests or multiple family members, we have 6’ X 4’ indoor kennels. Each kennel has a cot for sleeping, blankets, a water bowl and anything special brought from home. Our smaller guests sleep in comfortable padded crates in a separate enclosed building with all the comforts of home. All sleeping areas are temperature controlled with heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer.

Why are you closed from 12:00-2:00 every day?

We are open 7 days a week from 6:30am to 6:30pm but closed these hours for customer drop off and pick up. It is very important that we provide naptime for the dogs and clean their play yards during these hours. It is difficult for them to settle down unless we provide a quiet and dark environment for them. We understand that this may be inconvenient but it is all part of our goal to make sure that Ruff House is a fun, safe, and clean place to visit!